Kore-eda Hirokazu asks a question: "If Heaven is only a single memory from your life, which memory would you choose?" His 1998 film, "After Life" attempts to give an answer. The newly deceased find themselves in a "way station" somewhere between Heaven and Earth. With the help of caseworkers, each soul is given 3 days to choose one cherished memory from their lives. The memory each chooses will be relived for eternity. Fascinating concept! Can one single memory captivate one's entire life? This is not as easy as it sounds. My question - can purgatory be considered a "way station?" Why not? Its imagery in literature has been described by St. Augustine as a place or state where the soul is purified. Today we use the language of separation rather than the "fire of purgatory" which the saint used with great conviction. Church leaders today are careful not to describe this state as if they have already been there. I think this doctrine can stand on its own. Modern day people can appreciate the pain of separation. The "way station" of Kore-eda is an admirable one in which the soul has another chance to say yes to a God whose love is beyond our finite understanding. A chance to relive a cherished memory and ask forgiveness for the messiness of our lives! To check out this belief of Purgatory, one has to re-read Maccabees, chapter 12, 38-46 and examine the abuses of this custom within the mediaeval church. In this concise reflection, I believe purgatory is a way of saying God gives us second chances. It is about hope "after life." One can easily say purgatory is another chance to say yes to God after death. In the meanwhile, let us cherish our most precious memories. The question begs: which memory would you choose just in case you landed at this "way station" on the way to eternity?
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